HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-11-15-HSC-minI'VE
TOWN of LEXINGTON`$ wr
Human Service Committee Meew _g AM
, -0ys N CtdE K
November 15, 2011 LEXINGTON MA
The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Lea Gardner Elkin. The following were in
attendance: Lea, Barbara Ciampa, Gail Fields, Stephanie Lawrence, Norman Cohen,
Selectman, staff members, Emily Lavine and Charlotte Rodgers. Absent: Mimi Ballard
Report from the Human Services Department
Charlotte reported that she is continuing to interview for the Transportation Co- coordinator
28 hour position which requires management level skills. Three candidates are currently in the
running.
Norm reported on the situation with the Veterans' Agent as presented at the special Town
Meeting. The law requires a full time agent in order to be in compliance. The town will explore
forming a district with other towns such as Bedford or Lincoln. The recently hired agent is
currently planning a number of activities to help residents be aware of the services. Lea asked if
there were any places where the committee could be of help but the town appears to be taking
the lead with further explorations.
Emily and Charlotte reported that the Human Service Department was very active as part of
the town response to the storm. Emily also reported that referrals are up with the Youth
Services and fuel assistance with calls averaging around 40 per month for Information and
Referrals.
Charlotte reported that one staff member will be returning from maternity leave but another
will be leaving which means that the program will again be short staffed and call for
adjustments.
The committee wondered if this may present a future goal: reassessing the model as it relates
to staffing, support, meeting the needs, etc.
UPDATE ON THE HSD /HSC Brochure
Stephanie and Gail completed the new brochures (LEAF) which explain both how to use and
how to donate to the Lexington Emergency and Assistance Fund. Brochures were parceled out
for distribution. Stephanie suggested that we could use a more directed distribution plan to
gain more impact. The planning will be the focus of the next meeting.
Barbara passed out the annual report for MM Senior Services and noted how services have
doubled in the past year and she also described a new initiative that will involve MM working
with area hospitals for better follow -up planning.
A suggestion was made to change the December meeting date to the 13th. Lea will look in to
possibilities for meeting space and notify the committee regarding new date and location.
Respectfully submitted,
Gail Fields